Chowgule And Company Private Limited vs Goa Foundation

The Supreme Court addressed the legality of mining operations in Goa, holding that all iron ore and manganese ore leases expired on 22.11.2007, rendering any subsequent mining illegal. The Court emphasized that for a second renewal of mining leases under Section 8(3) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, an express order from the State Government is necessary, which must be justified in the interest of mineral development. The Court upheld the Government of Goa's order suspending mining operations and the Ministry of Environment and Forest's order to keep environmental clearances in abeyance, affirming their legality until new leases and clearances are granted.